U.K.’s Five puts soccer on iPhones

Move adds to revenue of broadcaster

Live soccer will bow on the iPhone in the U.K. thanks to cash-strapped web Five.

Beginning today, fans will be able to watch Five’s coverage of the UEFA Europa League plus highlights for a one-off fee of £3.99 ($6.40).

Head of digital media Jonathan Lewis said Five aims to distrib its longform, ad-supported video content on as many platforms as possible to increase revenues. The RTL-owned web desperately needs new rev streams after a dismal period for advertising sales. Five posted a loss of $70 million for the first half of 2009.